Refugee camps - Definition

A refugee camp is a camp built up by governments or NGOs (such as the ICRC) to receive refugees.

Since refugee camps are generally set up in an impromotu fashion, and designed to meet basic human needs for a short time, when civil war or other problems prevent the return of refugees, or children essentially grow up in the camps, a humanitarian crisis can result.

Facilities of a refugee camp can include the following:

• sleeping accommodations (tents)
• hygiene facilities (cleaning and toilets)
• medical supplies
• communication equipment (e.g. radio)

Examples of refugee camps:

• Nabatieh camp
• Jenin
• four near Tindouf

See also:

• United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
• United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East